TORS OF DARTMOOR

a database of both lesser- & well-known rocks and outcrops

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Shillyrock

Druids' Altar

An old 1800's map, names 'Shillyrock' south-east of Blackingstone Rock, and north-west of Laployd Plantation. Recent tree felling in the area has revealed the outcrop. But it possesses another name.

In his Guide to Dartmoor William Crossing (p268) advises that: "Not far from Blackingstone is a pile of rocks bearing the name of the Druids' Altar." For some time prior to 2018 there had been speculation about the exact location of these rocks and in that year, Paul Buck noted this flattened group well to the south-east of Blackingstone Rock.

Given its distinctive appearance from the side where it resembles a giant granite table, and in the absence of any definition of 'not far' it would seem that the mystery has finally been resolved.

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Shillyrock
The map above is not a navigation tool and we recommend that the grid reference shown below is used in conjunction with an Ordnance Survey map and that training in its use with a compass is advised.
Grid Ref:
SX 7927 8512
Height:
309m
Parish:
Bridford
Tor Classification:
Small
Access:
Private (but accessible)
Rock Type:
Granite
Credit:
William Crossing
Paul Buck (rediscovered)
Reference / Further Reading:
OS Map of 1800's
William Crossing: Guide to Dartmoor
Tors of Dartmoor Blog: Shillyrock or William Crossing's "Druid's Altar"

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